So what exactly is the expert consensus on how long someone can use an IUD? There are two branches to that question. First, when is it appropriate to place an IUD when a patient wants only short-term contraception? And second, how effective is the IUD beyond the time period listed in the labeling? Regarding the first question, experts are advising that clinicians reframe the concept of ‘early’ removal. Understandably, clinicians are mindful of the high up-front cost of IUDs borne by their patients. And they have been educated to focus on contraceptive method continuation rates, which can reflect patients’ satisfaction or dissatisfaction with their methods. But that focus on continuation rates, along with the name “long-acting” reversible contraception, can dissuade clinicians and patients from using an IUD for a only a short time, such as 9 months rather than for the several year limit listed in the labeling. According to Contraceptive Technology editor and author Patty Cason, while IUDs have limits duration of use, there is no limit on a minimal time for use.

Patients with underlying chronic medical conditions can present a challenge for their providers. While the U.S. Medical Eligibility Criteria covers 60 medical conditions, some of those conditions fall in that gray zone requiring the weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a using contraceptive method. Yet other chronic medical conditions are not even listed in the U.S. MEC. So what is a reasonable strategy for dealing with decisions about using a contraceptive method when a patient has one of the conditions not covered? Co-authors Rebecca Allen and Carrie Cwiak take a clinical problem-solving approach to determining a contraceptive fit for patients with chronic health issues in their new chapter on Contraception for Women with Medical Conditions in the just-published edition of Contraceptive Technology.

While the expansion of information technology has created a digital universe of medical resources, finding the most reliable resource with the right information can be a challenge. Increases in the volume of digital information may have the opposite effect of decreasing the chances of finding the most appropriate source of information in the least amount of time. Beware of digital resources that do not necessarily receive oversight from experts and can vary widely in their quality. Unlike traditional print sources that have publishers and editors to ensure the quality of content, digital resources do not have the same controls.

Now available in a new 21st edition, this well-known text with more than 2 million copies in print has been the leading family planning resource... Read more

Conferences

Covering the most important advances in women’s health and contraception, Contraceptive Technology is designed for health professionals just like you. Chaired by Dr. Robert Hatcher, the conference faculty includes the authors of the well-known reference text Contraceptive Technology, and other nationally known reproductive health experts. Conference topics include: new and future methods of contraception, sexuality issues, recurrent vaginitis, case studies, adolescent health, STD treatment, flexible OC management and much more.

The “Contraceptive Technology” conferences will help you synthesize the data and translate the evidence into clinical “pearls” you can put directly into practice. With an array of Preconferences delving into selected specialty areas of interest, plenary sessions focusing on the “hottest” topics, a thought-provoking luncheon presentation, and 30 dynamic, interactive Concurrent Sessions, including hands-on workshops…this conference is certain to improve your clinical practice and expand your network of colleagues. Read more

Contraceptive Technology

The premier reference in family planning for clinicians

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This month’s clinical pearl

December 2018 Clinical Fact:

“Because implants and IUDs are highly effective, they are excellent choices for the short-term, too, and the fact that an implant or an IUD is good for “up to” 3 to 20 years is an added advantage but not always relevant.” — Contraceptive Technology, 21st edition